Happy March, everyone! We survived the cold & boring months of January & February… so I think it’s time for a little celebration. What better way to celebrate the warmer weather than a pitcher of sangria! While sangria can be a bit more of a summer drink, here’s my recipe for Mint Sangria – it’s less sweet than usual, making it perfect for the Spring season.
Here’s what you’ll need to make ONE pitcher of Mint Sangria:
- 1 bottle of cheap white wine
- 1 can of apple cider, preferably a less sweet brand!
- 2 handfuls of strawberry halves
- 1/2 navel orange, segmented
- 1/2 grapefruit, in 2 quarters
- 1/2 lime, juiced
- 2 lemon wedges
- Fresh mint, as much as your personal preference (I like lots!)
- Club soda
I love this recipe for a couple reasons. Firstly, it’s not overly sweet, which is perfect for a Spring afternoon with friends. The bitterness of the grapefruit helps to balance out the sweetness from the berries. Secondly, it’s very booze-y! Since I’ve replaced most of the club soda with apple cider, this sangria has more alcohol per glass (wooo!).
What time of white wine should you choose?
Go for a drier and less sweet white wine, like a Pinot Grigio! It’s important that you don’t use a sweeter wine like Moscato, because the fruits will bring enough sweetness to the drink. As well, always buy the cheapest wine! No point in spending a bunch of money on wine that you’re going to use for sangria.
Should I mix the ingredients in any specific order?
Take your pitcher and add all your wine & cider first, so that you have a better understanding for how booze-y your sangria is going to be. Next, add all your fruits & squeeze the fresh lime into the pitcher. Load up the pitcher with as much fresh mint as your heart desires, and let it sit in the fridge for at least 8 hours. I don’t add my club soda during the soaking process, since the drink will loose much of its fizz. Instead, top off each glass with the club soda to give each drink a fizzy kick!
Optional step: Grab yourself a big jar with a straw, and have yourself a booze-y time!
Thirsty yet? Have a go at my Booze-y Mint Sangria, share it on social media. Make sure to take @mikerizzi!
